Bert “the ninja” Batawang a silver lining story

Being a boxer here in the Philippines is not an easy occupation. The struggle to provide food on the table and the promise to provide a good future for their family is what keeps them going. Others endure all the blows and knockdowns just to have something for their family. Boxing believe me is not the easiest way out of poverty but in our country when we are full of adversities we find ways of living our lives like our idols from an action film believing in the end a silver lining awaits.

Bert “the ninja” Batawang is the epitome of a boxer who struggled and hopefully a glimpse of that silver lining waits in his illustrious and colorful career in boxing. The warrior had 56 fights to boost his record with only 6 losses with 34 knockouts. He was supposed to be fighting in the World cup between Phil. And Mexico but unfortunately his would be opponent was found out to have problems in his eyes and was not fit to fight leaving Bert frustrated and unhappy. It was the moment for him to shine and show what he is made of but those frustrations was replaced by a world title fight with Rodel Mayol’s tormentor Ulysses Solis. So Bert went back to the gym and continued his training not giving up hope and doing his training religiously. But again fate has tested him again as Solis back out saying he injured his arms while on practice. But Bert didn’t give up hope and even intensify his practice more. The loneliness the frustrations and uncertainty are slowly clouding his mind but he shrug it off and humbly prayed to God to give him that once in a lifetime shot and promise to show all he got if he is given an opportunity. After negotiations Bert got a shot again after IBF ordered Solis to defend his title or they will stripped him off of the title.

Persistent and Prayers make us strong and maybe with all this adversities and struggles that we encounter there is that silver lining after all that’s why when you go to dumpsites in the Phil. You just have to wonder that in spite the poverty they will still greet you with a smile and warmth hospitality because poverty doesn’t make you a lesser person it humbles you more and living the life what God wants us to be . And now as Sept.30 is nearing Bert “the ninja” Batawang needed our prayers for his title fight. Don’t worry Bert our support will always be with you. You have struggled and showed us the way to handle obstacles in life. You’ve done your part now it’s our turn. So Pinoys unite!!